Amarillo, Texas – A narrow but intense window of winter weather is creating dangerous travel conditions across the northwest Texas Panhandle early this morning, with snow rates increasing between 3 a.m. and 9 a.m. before tapering later today. Roads, bridges, and overpasses may quickly become slick during the morning commute, especially in areas under a Winter Storm Warning.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, the warning is in effect for Dallam County and Sherman County in Texas, along with Cimarron County in Oklahoma. Moderate to heavy snowfall is expected during the early morning hours, with the highest accumulation focused in the northwest Panhandle. Several inches of snow are possible in and around Dalhart, Stratford, and Texline, while amounts drop off farther south and east toward Amarillo.
Surface temperatures farther south are expected to remain marginal, which may limit snow accumulation on main roadways. However, forecasters warn that snow can still accumulate on grassy areas, bridges, and elevated surfaces, creating sudden slick spots. Travel conditions may deteriorate quickly during heavier snowfall bursts, particularly along U.S. 287, U.S. 54, and area farm-to-market roads.
Drivers are urged to delay travel if possible during the early morning hours, reduce speed, and allow extra stopping distance. Snowfall rates should decrease after mid-morning, but lingering slick conditions are possible. Additional updates will be issued if impacts increase or snow persists longer than expected.
